The Capital Region’s preferred destination for hiking is without a doubt Shenandoah National Park. Containing approximately 300 square miles of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah features over 500 miles of trails, including a 101 mile stretch of the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, which runs from Maine to Georgia.

Visitors can also take in the park’s spectacular beauty and wildlife by car: the famous Skyline Drive traces the length of the park, and provides gorgeous views from myriad overlooks.

Virginia boasts the Capital Region’s most challenging terrain for hikers, skiers and mountain bikers. Roughly one-fourth of the famous Appalachian Trail runs through Virginia, much of it through the Blue Ridge Mountains, a smaller chain within the Appalachian Mountain range. The Blue Ridge are home to Shenandoah National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway, a 469-mile route known as “America’s Favourite Drive”. While always beautiful, the Blue Ridge Parkway, which celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2010, is most vibrant in autumn, when leaf peepers can marvel at the foliage’s flaming hues of scarlet, gold and orange.

Further south in Virginia, the mountains become steeper and the hiking more demanding. If you’re up for the challenge, consider scaling Mt. Rogers, which is the state’s highest point at 5,729 feet. Or, ski down the slopes at Wintergreen Resort, The Homestead, Massanutten or Bryce Resort, all of which cater to both beginning and advanced-level skiers.

Deals

Discover the Capital Region USA. Experience the best of the Capital Region USA – Washington, DC, Virginia and Maryland – from famous attractions and shopping to beaches, mountains, scenic drives and beyond.